The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

So it seems that many still prefer Victor & HMV portables with HMVs being the favorite. I don't recall seeing any HMV portables at the 2009 Union show. It's possible I overlooked them as there were plenty of other things to look at. I didn't find anything suitable in 2009 & couldn't make any shows in 2010. Maybe this will be the year if gas prices don't go too high. Might be cheaper to fly considering that from my new location the drive will now be about 13 hours.

Sorry Jerry B., when I started the thread I was thinking about portables that play 78s. Of course those suitcase style Edison's are nice idea for something different. I have an early B. I do remember learning early on, never carry them by the handle, or one could end up with a pile of Edison parts on the floor.

Definitely a 1931 HMV 102 in green with the sophisticated automatic brake for any make of record, and a convenient record tray. Light, elegant,compact for a portable, long horn, no pot metal at all apart from backplate of soundbox if a 5A is present as opposed to a No.16,silent motor, beautiful chrome fittings, for me a 'warmer' and more refined tone of sound reproduction than any rival. That isn't to say that it is the loudest, but it is definitely the best overall; naturally a worn record can cause distortion, it doesnt work miracles, and the soundboxes are a nightmare if they need work, but a good one is unbeatable =D . I found mine, from which I take the description from, in the wild for £20 or around $30 I guess However, I may be ever so slightly biased as a result of finding it so close to home. But my points on performance stand, if I was you I would find a good 102, good luck in whatever you do!

I have only owned one portable phonograph up until this past week. A member of the board let me know that there was an Edison P-1 for sale somewhat near me. I don't have too much interest in portables but because it isn't too common and the price was so low, I had to buy it. I will post pictures when I receive it in a few days.